Inveigh

Verb

Definition: To speak or write about (something) with great hostility or anger.

Synonyms: Attack, Denounce, Criticize

Antonyms: Praise, Commend

Examples:

The politician would often inveigh against his opponents during his speeches.
The newspaper columnist inveighed against the government's policies in his latest article.

Mnemonics:

Think of "in-vay" sounding similar to "envy," which can lead to verbal attacks out of jealousy or resentment.
Inveigh starts with "in" which can remind you of "intense" or "inflammatory" attacks.

Etymology:

Origin:

Inveigh comes from the Middle French word "enveer" which means "to make a sustained complaint."

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the 15th century, with its meaning evolving over time to its current definition of verbally attacking or denouncing someone or something.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Inveigh against"

Explanation:

This phrase is often used to describe vehemently criticizing or denouncing something or someone.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "inveigh" with "envisage" or "envy."

Explanation:

Although the words may sound similar, they have different meanings and usages. "Inveigh" specifically refers to verbally attacking or denouncing, while "envisage" means to contemplate or envision, and "envy" means to desire what someone else has.